in february 2019 we attended the inaugural spirit of running awards gala at the city hotel, armagh.

the awards were an opportunity to celebrate the growth and popularity of running(road & trail) for people of all abilities.

we were delighted to be the charity partner for the evening and the night was made even more special when aaron was named as the 'male inspirational runner'.

The Shaw Trust Disability Power 100 list is published every year to recognise and celebrate the 100 most influential disabled people within the UK.

The list comprises of 7 categories:

Arts, Fashion and Design
Business, Finance and I.T
Entertainment
Politics and Law
Education, Public and Third Sector
Digital, Media and Publishing
Sport

We as parents are extremely proud to announce that today we were all invited to the House of Lords for the launch of this years list.

Aaron has been selected to feature on the 2019 list and has been included in the sports category. We are delighted that he is receiving this recognition for which he not only deserves, but has worked extremely hard for. This years list also includes people such as Lee Ridley(Lost Voice Guy), Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Anne Hegerty, Ade Adepitan, Warwick Davis, many more amazing people with an MBE/CBE, and now our wee son from County Down 💚

In our experience, people who have complex needs can often be overlooked and under estimated by society, and even more so those with communication difficulties. Our son faces these challenges and difficulties daily, so to be recognised, respected and valued for his contribution to society is absolutely incredible and a true credit to Aaron.

Aaron has been included for his contribution and achievements within sport, also being recognised as an ambassador for assisted running.

As well as making this years list, Aaron has the pride of being the only person from Northern Ireland to feature on it.

This is a huge honour for Aaron and our family, and it proves that whatever disability you may have, whether physical, learning, or both, you can achieve great things with the right encouragement and support.

team kerr